SOCIAL Policy, Health and Housing degree students at University Centre St Helens were treated to a special guest lecture from Warrington based Golden Gates Housing Trust’s Managing Director, Peter Fitzhenry, last week.
Peter, who has worked in the housing industry for more than 30 years, has appeared on Channel 4’s Dispatches and in various national newspapers discussing topics connected to Welfare and Housing.
During the lecture, students heard first-hand about some of the challenges currently facing Housing Associations in the wake of Welfare Reform, and in particular, the impact of Universal Credit, austerity and the current housing climate in the UK generally.
Social Policy, Health and Housing Programme Lecturer, Peter Gore, said: “We were delighted to welcome Peter to University Centre St Helens. Peter’s wealth of knowledge and experience gave students an excellent insight into the housing sectors current operating environment.”
Jenny Owens, who is currently studying Social Policy, Health and Housing at University Centre St Helens said: “Peter’s guest lecture was really insightful and relevant to our course of study. It was so interesting to hear about the current climate of the housing sector. It complemented what we have been learning academically and helps put everything into context.”
Students were also given the opportunity to ask Peter about his personal experiences of the sector and his career journey.
The Social Policy, Health and Housing course offered at University Centre St Helens, provides a fulfilling and stimulating experience that connects theory and practice. Delivered by dedicated and experienced staff, the course aims to give a real insight into social policy as a discipline.
University Centre St Helens is holding an open day on the Saturday 27th February, 5pm-7pm. For more information about the open day or the Social Policy, Health and Housing degree please visit www.uc.sthelens.ac.uk.